School's Principal

A long-standing member of WUK, part of the house for more than 30 years. Studied to become a teacher in German philology, philosophy, psychology, and education at the University of Vienna. Mother of two daughters, teaches German, English, civic education, and history, and enjoys organizing trips and projects.

Since 2002, teacher at the Schüler*innenschule for civic education, circus, theater, and mathematics. He works with play- and theater-based educational methods and strives to make everyday interactions more respectful and peaceful.

Studied sociology, worked for 15 years as a social worker in the WUK youth project, and has for many years been responsible for mathematics and science projects. He is also a passionate cook.

At the Schüler*innenschule since 2001. Teaches geography, Italian (native speaker), girls’ project, German, mathematics, and tutoring. She is also a dance educator, snowboard instructor, and climbing trainer, and is therefore responsible for sports and physical activities at the school. Lives with her husband and son in Vienna-Favoriten, organizes trips with great enthusiasm, and loves windsurfing.

Studied graphic design and worked as a graphic designer/art director in various advertising agencies. In 2004 completed teacher training at the Vienna Pedagogical Academy; also trained as an art and creative therapist. At the Schüler*innenschule since 2011. Teaches music, English, and visual arts. As a special education teacher, she feels especially responsible for children with special needs. Lives in Vienna with her husband and son. Enjoys photography and painting, is a passionate climber and swimmer, and loves music and singing.

A trained journalist and historian, he spent several years working in journalism (including at derStandard.at) and in public relations before finding his true calling as a teacher at an alternative school. For Simon Hirt, it is something of a homecoming, as he himself was once a student in the WUK school collective. He now teaches German, history, media projects, sports, and film class.

Since 2011, the school and the Werkcollege have offered the Art Therapy Studio. In art therapy, students work with materials and forms of expression from the visual arts. The focus is not on producing works of art—although that often happens as a result—but on expressing and processing inner movements, feelings, and images. Authentic expression gives students insights into their own abilities. This can open up new perspectives that can be applied to their personal life situations.

Shani-Sophie has been teaching at the school since 2020, mainly in English. After studying in the Netherlands and completing an internship in New Zealand, she discovered her love for teaching as an alternative school teacher at WUK. She also has a great passion for music, circus arts, and playful learning.

Tobias himself was a student at WUK for nine years and later completed a year of community service at the school. He is currently studying education at the University of Vienna. His passions are sports, media, and theater, and he especially enjoys working with children and teenagers (since 2018 he has spent every summer as a summer camp counselor in Augarten). He teaches biology, debate club, tutoring/homework support, and Youngstars.